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Breaking Down the NBA’s Newest Rivalry

Written by on 08/25/2010 in Editorials - 8 Comments

Written by: Alan Ni

It shouldn’t be a mystery which team is coming out the West.

In my mind, the team that is going to give the Lakers some problems is the young and upstart Oklahoma City Thunder. We all saw what they could do in last year’s playoffs. If you let them go off on you in the beginning, it’ll be hard to fight back. Especially in that ocean of fans.

But, with a healthy Kobe Bryant (just turned 32, happy birthday Mamba), and the new additions of Steve Blake and a very hungry Matt Barnes, the Thunder shouldn’t be that much of a problem. Not to mention that the Lakers still have their core.

I’ve punched a ticket for the Lakers winning the West for the fourth time in a row already, but on paper, their biggest nemesis is the Miami Heat. Will Miami’s so-called “Superfriends” ruin the 3-peat? Let’s take a closer look.

Next: Upgrading an Already Potent Roster

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About the Author

Daniel is the editor-in-chief for Lakers Nation. He's always doing his best to keep you informed and entertained. Follow Daniel on Twitter - @DanielBuerge_LA.

Comments

comments

  • LAL

    wade is actualy 28 or 29 years old

  • LAL

    wade is actualy 28 or 29 years old

  • KB24

    wow, it sounded like you almost put wade over kobe.

  • KB24

    wow, it sounded like you almost put wade over kobe.

  • Richard

    Very astute analysis, but you made one mistake in calling this a rivalry. Right now this is a possibility and simply exists in our minds—they haven’t played each other yet. OKC and LAL? Now, that is a rivalry…hopefully KD and Westy will get themselves so tired carrying Team USA at the FIBA World Basketball Championships…nah, can’t be wishing that.

    One more thought: The Celtics haven’t beaten the Lakers starting 5 in a series…just saying.

  • Richard

    Very astute analysis, but you made one mistake in calling this a rivalry. Right now this is a possibility and simply exists in our minds—they haven’t played each other yet. OKC and LAL? Now, that is a rivalry…hopefully KD and Westy will get themselves so tired carrying Team USA at the FIBA World Basketball Championships…nah, can’t be wishing that.

    One more thought: The Celtics haven’t beaten the Lakers starting 5 in a series…just saying.

  • Eddie

    why do you think D fish number isnt rafter worthy?

  • Eddie

    why do you think D fish number isnt rafter worthy?